Stafford Sidelined to No. 3 in SI's Preseason Rankings
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Despite reigning MVP status, Matthew Stafford falls behind a two-horse race for the top spot in Sports Illustrated's latest QB rankings.
In the lead-up to the 2026 NFL training camps, Sports Illustrated has released its preseason quarterback rankings, placing reigning MVP Matthew Stafford at number three, as Sports Illustrated first reported.
According to reporting from Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame, the top of the list is currently a "two-horse race" between Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes. Verderame notes that the debate for the number one spot centers on whether a voter prioritizes recent statistical performance or a player's overall body of work and championship success, specifically citing head-to-head postseason matchups.
The list also highlights a mix of established veterans and emerging players. For instance, Trevor Lawrence is noted as a candidate looking to secure his first MVP award in 2026, while Sam Darnold is credited with excellent play over the last two seasons with the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings, including a victory in Super Bowl LX.